Welcome to Enchanting Journeys

Asia sticks to you. From the nomadic steppes of Kazakhstan to the frenetic streets of Hanoi, Asia is a continent so full of intrigue, adventure, solace & spirituality that it has fixated & confounded travellers for centuries. Wrapped in rainforests, edged by golden sands, crowned by volcanoes, studded with ruins of lost civilisations: this is Asia as you have always imagined it. The joss sticks lit for the household shrines in Thailand impart a sweet perfume to the thick air & the heavenly aroma of Indian spices follows you for days.

And India is an incredibly varied & exciting vacation destination, pulsating with a spectacular mix of people, traditions & landscapes. With an intoxicatingly rich history, which has spawned a number of exquisite Palaces, Temples & monuments, your journey through this mind-stirring country will blaze in your memory long after you have left its shores.  Come, discover India with us….

Namaste & welcome to incredible Republic of India - one of the friendliest countries on earth, combining glorious architecture with a warm-hearted welcome. With its sumptuous mix of traditions, spiritual beliefs, festivals, architecture & landscapes, your memories of India will blaze bright long after you have left its shores.

Arrive in the dynamic & vibrant city Delhi, one of the world’s greatest Megalopolises with its chaotic charm & juxtapositions found on every street, Steeped in history yet overflowing with modern life, colourful, cacophonous Delhi pulsates with the relentless rhythms of humanity like few other cities on Earth.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal 3 - Delhi Indira Gandhi Airport, subsequent to Immigration & Customs, you will be welcomed by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer you the hotel. Assistance will be provided during Check-in & there will be a short briefing to discuss the program for the next few days.

If, for any reason you are unable to make contact with our representative within 30 minutes of waiting, please call the local Emergency telephone # listed on your Contact List. Please follow the advice given by our 24 / 7 Duty Officer.  Please do not exit the Airport & make your own way to the hotel unless advised.

Arrive at the hotel & Check-in.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Morning & afternoon is at leisure for independent exploration (we shall be only too happy to offer suggestions for ‘Optional programs & arrange).

Evening, be ready for an interesting experience, reliving the centuries old history.

Delhi, the Capital of Kingdoms & Empires is now a sprawling Metropolis with a fascinating blend of the past & the present. Delhi is a perfect introduction to the composite culture of an ancient land & a window to the kaleidoscope that is India. It is a city that bridges 2 different worlds.

Delhi has been the political hub of India. Every political activity in the country traces its roots here. This was true even of the mythological era. The Pandavas of the epic Mahabharata had their Capital at Indraprastha, which is believed to have been geographically located in today's Delhi.

Old Delhi, once the Capital of Islamic India, is a labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with crumbling Havelis & formidable mosques. In contrast, the imperial city of New Delhi created by the British Raj is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues & imposing government buildings. Delhi has been the seat of power for several Rulers & many Empires for about a millennium. Many a times the city was built, destroyed & then rebuilt here. Interestingly, a number of Delhi's Rulers played a dual role, first as destroyers & then as creators.

Delhi is a city built upon cities. There are at least 8 historical Delhis, each constructed on, or near, the ruins of its predecessor, leaving a modern-day Citadel that is dotted with ancient monuments, many said to be haunted by djinns (spirits). Love history & you will be left salivating as you trace your way through the eras, clambering across the ruined forts of Tughlaqabad, Siri, Purana Qila & Shajahanabad; exploring the magnificent Tombs of eminent historical figures & visiting the still-vibrant Temples, Mosques & Shrines that throng with devotees today, as they have done for hundreds of years.

The city's importance lies not just in its past glory as the seat of Empires & magnificent monuments, but also in the rich and diverse cultures. No wonder chroniclers of Delhi culture - from Chand Bardai & Amir Khusro to present day Writers - have never been at a loss for topics. In Delhi, you will discover that the city is sprinkled with dazzling gems: captivating ancient monuments, fascinating Museums & Art Galleries, Architectural wonders, a vivacious Performing Arts scene, fabulous eating places & bustling Markets.

And how can we forget the indomitable Delhi cuisine & street food.

As the Capital city of one of the most delicious country's on Earth, Delhi tantalises your taste buds with its thali-like fusion of flavours from every corner of the subcontinent: Breakfast on South Indian idly; lunch on Punjabi kulchas; then, come evening, dine on rich Mughlai curries. But don't forget to leave room for some Dilli-ka-Chaat, Delhi's famously delicious street-food snacks; try sizzling kebabs for starters, then munch on aloo tikki (spiced potato patties) before getting your fingers sticky on jalebi (orange-coloured coils of deep-fried batter dunked in sugar syrup) or savouring some sumptuously creamy cardamon kheer (rice pudding).

You will be met by the Journeys Rep up at 06.00 pm for transfer to the majestic UNESCO World Heritage listed Red Fort, more popularly known as Lal Quila.

One of the finest examples of the precision, grandeur & finesse of Mughal architecture & now enduring symbol of political authority in India, Lal Quila or the Red Fort, was built by Emperor Shah Jahan, who also built the Taj Mahal, between 1638 & 1648. The red sandstone used in its massive outer wall gave it the name “Lal Quila” or the Red Fort & it was the residence of the Mughal Emperor & the Capital of the Empire till Bahadur Shah Zafar the last Mughal emperor was deposed by the British in 1857. 

Relive the history as you enjoy the 1 hour + Son et Lumiere Show within the sandstone walls of Red Fort. Learn how the Fort became one of the most important landmarks in Delhi, the mystifying stories, astonishing legends, the tales of rise & fall of Kingdoms, eminent Rulers who changed the course of history, narrated through a composition of music & color. It traces the history of the Mughal Empire in India, outlining their glory & the eventful causes for their downfall. Feast your eyes & ears on the magical effects created by the audio-visual show within the sandstone walls of the Fort.

Projectors illuminate different parts of the Fort. The terraces are set up in the garden & the different parts of the Palace are spread out before your eyes. A bit kitschy all the same.

The enchanting fusion of lights & sounds, accompanied with captivating narration takes you through the extraordinary episodes of Delhi.  Let yourself be carried away by the fairy-tale atmosphere of this luminous music show, sublimating the already dreamlike aspect of the place retracing the history of the city. Not only will you see the Fort in a different light (literally), you will also get an idea of the city’s heritage.

The narration begins from the construction of the Red Fort in 1638 & culminates with the attainment of independence in 1947. During the narrative, the different structures are illuminated in different colours of light to depict the portrayal of a certain character of event in history.

Sitting under the open Delhi sky, viewing these century old structures framed by the fast flowing of traffic of modern Delhi on its modern roads in the background & listening to the history of India being story-told by a commanding voice of a famous Bollywood icon in an informative tone is truly an enriching & fulfilling experience.

Scenes & situations from history such as festivals, coronations, intimate personal drama, marriages, wars, important meetings are creatively orally enacted / play-read & are interspersed with great music depicting that era.

After the Show ends, get ready to enjoy authentic Indian delicacies & proceed to the popular Chor Bizarre restaurant, in the vicinity.

Designed to look like a thief's market, this dining room serves dishes from around the country.

"Chor Bizarre is the complete eating out experience - great decor, distinct ambience enhanced by assorted Hindi, '50's music, wondrous cocktails, superlative food, charming 'Old World' service" - The Economic Times.

Every city in India has its own special 'Chor Bazaar' which translates as 'thief’s market'. All kinds of wares find their way here (with or without the consent of the owners). This being our inspiration & to celebrate the eclecticism of India in all its exuberant irreverence, the owners coined the name with a pun on the word bazaar & 'Chor Bizarre' was born.

Having created an atmosphere that provides a unique setting for truly authentic & inspired cuisine, Chor Bizarre has been one of India's most celebrated restaurants since 1990.

Return to the hotel.

Early morning, you will be met by a Journeys Rep & transferred to Terminal 1 - Delhi Indira Gandhi Airport for your flight to Guwahati.

Arrive in Guwahati, largest city in the region, Capital of the State & considered to be the gateway to Northeast India.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall in Terminal? - Guwahati Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport you will be welcomed by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to the hotel. He / she will provide assistance during Check-in & also discuss the program for the next few days.

If, for any reason you are unable to make contact with our representative within 30 minutes of waiting, please call the local Emergency telephone # listed on your Contact List. Please follow the advice given by our 24 / 7 Duty Officer.  Please do not exit the Airport & make your own way to the hotel unless advised

Reach the hotel & Check-in.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Balance of the day is at leisure or perhaps opt for one of the Options available (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Stretching 600 km along the Brahmaputra River Valley, surrounded by hills, major rivers & thick forest, the largest Northeast state of Assam termed as the land of “Blue Hills & Red River”, is the gateway to the north eastern states & has been aptly described as the sentinel of Northeast India.

The archetypal landscape is a golden-green panorama of rice fields & manicured bright green tea, framed by the blue mountains of Arunachal Pradesh in the north & the highlands of Meghalaya & Nagaland to the south, close to India’s international borders with China, Myanmar, Bhutan & Bangladesh.

There are more than 600 manicured bright-green Tea Gardens spread on more than 3000 sq km of land carpeted in bright-green tea gardens, Around 20 of these Estates feature world class Golf Courses & a few with Polo Fields. The Jorhat Gymkhana Club is the oldest Golf Course in Asia & the 3^rd oldest in the world.

The State is dotted with monuments of 600 years old Ahom dynasty; the longest ruling single dynasty in Indian history & one among the very few dynasties that could not be conquered by the Mughals. Assam is the home to various ethnic Tribes, each having its own cultural heritage & unique features in its socio-cultural life including Customs, Religious belief, Language, Culture, way-of-life, Food, Songs, Festivals.

Well known for its National Parks abounding in Rhinoceroses, Elephants, Deer & Primates (with respectable Tiger numbers too), it welcomes visitors with a subtly flavoured Cuisine & a hospitable population with a vibrant artistic heritage.

Guwahati, popularly known as ‘the city of eastern light’, is situated on the banks of the slow, meandering mighty Brahmaputra River & the foothills of the Shillong plateau, surrounded by lush green Hills, Rivers & Forests.

Known for its beautiful natural scenery, rich culture & fascinating history, it is a city that offers something for everyone, whether in nature, spirituality, adventure or food.

Excavations trace the origins of the city to around the 4^th century & it was the capital of Assam until the 10^th century. It is the main center for shopping & business, attracting people from all over the north east as well as from Eastern Bhutan.

The city & its surrounding areas are rich in wildlife. Kaziranga National Park, known for its famous resident the 1 horned Indian rhinoceros is not too far. The Assam State Zoo, Pobitara Wildlife Sanctuary & Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary are also worth a visit.

It is also a major Commercial & Educational center of eastern India. As the 2^nd largest commercial Tea production region in the world after China, the city is an important tea trading center. The Guwahati Tea Auction Center (GTAC) is among the busiest Tea trading facilities in the world.

Exploring along the south bank of the mighty river, in the older areas, walking in its back Alleys & old Quarters, you will start to feel the character & local flavour that lingers amidst the Ponds, Palm trees, Temples, single-storey traditional Houses & colonial-era Mansions.

The sprawling city is in large part, a somewhat featureless expanse of concrete, glass & traffic with the lush hills providing a verdant backdrop for the suburbs, with a scattering of interesting Temples to explore.

Guwahati is known for its rich cultural heritage that can be experienced through its numerous Festivals, traditional Dances, & Music. The Bihu celebrated in January, April & October, is one of the most important Festivals in Assam & is a great way to experience the local culture. The city is also home to several Museums & Art Galleries, showcasing the region's History & Art.

Guwahati is also considered a spiritual hub of Northeast India, known for holy sites. The ancient Kamakhya Devi Temple, atop the Nilachal Hill, the highest spot in the city, featuring shrines to the Hindu deities Shiva & Vishnu, is one of the most revered in India attracting thousands of devotees, for its mystic ‘tantric’ experiences & where animal sacrifices are still a daily occurrence.

There are many other smaller ancient Temples including the 18^th century Navagraha Temple with its Astronomical center & Planetary Shrines. Umananda Temple on Peacock Island in the river, is dedicated to Shiva & features exquisite engravings. Hajo is an important multi-faith pilgrim center for Hindus, Muslims & Buddhists.

Guwahati is also a great destination for adventure seekers, with several activities such as River Rafting, Trekking & Camping available in & around the city.

Assamese cuisine is known for its unique flavors & use of local ingredients. Visitors can enjoy some of the best local dishes at the city's numerous restaurants & street food stalls. Some must-try dishes include the fish curry, bamboo shoot pickle & pitha (a type of rice cake).

Morning, depart for Kaziranga National Park.

Arrive at the Jungle Lodge after 3 hours of driving & Check-in.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Rest of the morning is at leisure.

UNESCO World Heritage listed Kaziranga National Park spread over an area of 430 sq. km, located on the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River is one of the world’s key Wildlife Sanctuaries renowned for its bio-diversity, protecting one of the few remaining regions of natural habitat in the Terai, the lowland valleys in the foothills of the mighty Himalaya.

It is said when Mary Curzon, the wife of then Viceroy of India - Lord Curzon of Kedleston, visited the Park to see the 1-horned Rhinoceros, she wasn’t able to find even one. She persuaded her husband to take urgent measures to protect the endangered species which he did by initiating planning for their protection. After a series of meetings with his bureaucrats, the Kaziranga Proposed Reserve Forest was created with an area of 232 km2 in 1905 & later in time, designated a National Park in 1974.

Seasonally flooded by monsoon rains & floods carried down by the great river, the Park is characterized by “grass jungle” in which floodplains of tall elephant grass meadows intersperse with tracts of dense tropical forest. Numerous marshes, swampy lagoons & oxbow lakes dot the floodplains amongst this exceptionally rich wildlife habitat.

For all those who have thought that 1 horned Indian Rhinoceros only existed in Jurassic-era, then a trip to Kaziranga is a must. A few centuries ago, the Indian 1-horned Rhino ranged across the north Indian plains in the wetlands of the rivers Indus, Ganga & Brahmaputra.  Today, it is found only in pockets of Assam & in Nepal.

The Park is home to one of the largest populations of the iconic Rhinoceros - more than 2200, approximately 2/3^rd of their total world population (in 1904, there were less than 100 & the Indian Conservation efforts were applauded worldwide).

2 other giant (& endangered) Mammals also find sanctuary in Kaziranga - Asian Elephant & wild water Buffalo. The latter, a formidable beast, should not be confused with its cousin, the domesticated water Buffalo as the wild species has a spread of horns wider than that of the African Buffalo & it is equally aggressive.

The Asian Elephant is, of course, as fascinating as the African species & we can compare & contrast the similarities & differences between them. Observations of wild Elephants are particularly good here, especially when they come down to jungle-fringed lagoons to drink & bathe.

Kaziranga also boasts a range of other wildlife & harbours about 35 species of India's threatened Mammals including the most dense population of Royal Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Swamp Deer, Hoolock Gibbon, Gangetic Dolphin. With increase in Tiger population every year, the authorities declared Kaziranga as a Tiger Reserve in the year 2006.

The Park is also recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by Bird Life International for the conservation of avifaunal species, making it not only an ideal Wildlife sighting destination but a Birdwatcher’s paradise as well.

There is an extraordinary Bird population including lesser white-fronted Goose, ferruginous Duck, Baer’s pochard Duck & lesser Adjutant, greater Adjutant. One can also find a good number of migratory Birds from Central Asia during the winter season including, black-necked Stork, Asian Openbill Stork. In fact, the Park is considered to be an Ornithologist's paradise & attracts many Experts throughout the year.

Due to the difference in altitude between the eastern & western areas of the Park, here one can see mainly 4 types of vegetation’ like alluvial inundated grasslands, alluvial savanna woodlands, tropical moist mixed deciduous forests & tropical semi-evergreen forests. Kumbhi, Indian Gooseberry, the Cotton Tree & Elephant Apple are amongst the famous trees that can be seen here. Rattan Cane, which is a type of climbing Palm, also adds to the beauty.

The Park is primarily popular for its dense & tall Elephant grasses intermixed by small swamplands left behind by the receding floodwaters of Brahmaputra. In addition to grasses & forests, Kaziranga includes a good variety of aquatic Flora. An abundant cover of water lilies, water hyacinth & lotus can be seen in lakes, ponds, & along the river shores.

In addition to Wildlife Safaris, visitors can also enjoy Elephant rides, Bird watching tours & cultural Performances.by indigenous communities.

Afternoon, you will embark on an exciting experience.

The sprawling area, the hotspot of diversity, is split into 5 Zones for visitors & each has its own distinguishing feature regarding grasslands, the density of mammals & bird, land topography, terrains. Safaris are available in 4 of the Park's 5 Ranges, of which the central Kohora Range & western Bagori Range offer the best overall wildlife sightings & consequently, have most safari traffic.

Each visitable range has its own Entry Gate, Jeep or Elephant rental & Ticket offices nearby. There are pre-defined tourist circuits where the Safaris conducted by the Park authorities, are permitted at specific times once in the morning & once in the afternoon.

Reach the specified Zone & get ready for an unforgettable 90 minutes Game Drive.

Today, we have envisaged the popular 4WD Jeep Safari that allows you to get close to the Rhinos & other large Mammals. Late afternoon is a great time to spot wildlife due to the cooling temperatures.

Kaziranga is home to many wild animals, but the show stopper is of course, the iconic 1-horned Rhino & the Tiger. While spotting a Tiger is always a matter of luck, spotting a Rhino is easy. Spotting the Rhinoceros in its stomping yard is an experience that you can live to tell your grandchildren. 

The Safari finishes & you are transferred back to the Lodge.

Evening at leisure to enjoy the facilities at the Lodge.

Today, wake up at dawn & after enjoying a hot cup of chai & biscuits, board your Jeep at 05.00 am & leave for another Game Drive.

Proceed to the Central Sector & there, you will climb atop waiting Elephants for your 90 minute Elephant Safari. As the sun rises, ride on the Elephant & wade through thick elephant grass looking out for the endangered Rhino. Normally, there are 20+ Elephants travelling together.

Kaziranga is home to many wild animals, but the show stopper is of course, the iconic 1-horned Rhino & the Tiger. While spotting a Tiger is always a matter of luck, spotting a Rhino is easy. Spotting the Rhinoceros in its stomping yard is an experience that you can live to tell your grandchildren. 

Witness a host of other wildlife, including Barking Deer & Tigers.  Although Kaziranga is home to one of the largest concentration of Tigers in a protected area but spotting is still elusive.

The Safari finishes & you are transferred back to the Lodge in time for breakfast.

Rest of the morning is at leisure. Relax, amble around in the vicinity of the Lodge.

After lunch, board your Jeep at 02.00 am & leave for another 3 hour Game Drive.

Come back to the Lodge.

Balance of the evening is at leisure.

At dawn, enjoy another 3 hour Game Drive.

Return to the Lodge for breakfast & then Check-out.

In time, depart for Jorhat.

On arrival by noon, Check-in at the quaint colonial bungalow located within a Tea Estate.

If you love waking up to a cup of Tea every morning, the aroma & the taste marking a pleasant beginning, you might love visiting Jorhat, famously known as the ‘Tea Capital of the World’ thanks to the innumerable number of Tea Plantations & Factories here, around 135 including the surrounding areas.

The beautiful, commercial, artistic city of Jorhat, 2^nd largest in Assam, is a doorway to both Assam & Nagaland. It derives its name from 2 Haats or Bazaars "Macharhat & Chowkihat" on the banks of River Bhogdoi, a tributary of the Brahmaputra.

Situated in the northeastern region, it was the last Capital of the mighty Ahom dynasty, which reigned supreme in Assam for more than 6 centuries. The city echoes with the bravery of the last Ahom warriors who liberated the people from the shackles of the Mughal Rulers, for which he retains they respect of the people of Assam.

Famous for its Culture, Mosques, Tombs & most importantly - its Tea Plantations, it is a symbol of historical relevance that makes Jorhat the soul of Assam.

The cultural diversities which prevailed here nearly a century ago, has inspired the people to participate in cultural activities through the decades & consequently, the city has been able to produce many creative Writers, Musician, Actors, Historians & Journalists, & due to this rich cultural heritage, it is called the "Cultural Capital of Assam".

Tea Plantations are the main agricultural areas around the city which also takes the shape of a tourist attraction given its simple natural charm.

Apart Tea production, the land is famous for its contribution in the field of jewelry making. Jewelry items from here are fine specimens of its vibrant & colorful tradition, reflected in the exquisite products from the Artisans.

Jorhat is home to many renowned historical monuments, heritage sites, natural Reserves. Thengal Bhawan, Raja Maidam, Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary are some of the major places of interest here. Dhekiakhowa Bornamghar is the oldest & the most famous place of worship in Assam, which attracts a lot of pilgrims.

It has powerful water-bodies like the Brahmaputra River, which forms the world's largest riverine island, Majuli, the principal place of pilgrimage of Vaishnavites since the times of the Ahom Rulers, which can be accessed by ferries from Nimati Ghat.

Afternoon around 02.00 pm, you will be met by the Tour-guide & proceed for a 3 hour tour around the Tea Garden.

Touring a Tea Garden, most welcome visitors, can be an enjoyable experience. You may also learn about the history & cultural significance of Tea as well as its role in global trade & commerce & the entire process from Harvesting to Packaging & Shipping.

There are many Estates in Jorhat but you would be exploring the one you are staying in. Some of the more popular ones include the Amalgamated Plantations Private Limited, McLeod Russel & Goodricke Group.

Walking around, you will observe the workers plucking the tender tea leaves & buds, using a special technique to pluck in such a way that the plants can continue to produce new leaves. After plucking, the tea leaves undergo a series of processes like withering, rolling & fermentation.

You will have the opportunity to talk to the Planters working in the fields & learn about the complex planting process & its importance in producing high-quality Tea. See the different varieties of Tea plants & learn about their growth cycle.

Some Estates have Factories where fermented dried leaves are processed further into final products & then moved to the automated Packaging section.

Visiting a Tea Factory can be a fascinating experience, providing insights into the production process, the cultural & historical significance of Tea & the efforts of modern Factories to promote sustainability & quality. You will get a chance to see the full process of manufacturing like crushing, tearing & curling of tea.

In today’s greenwashing & environmental consciousness, many Factories are committed to sustainability & you may learn about their efforts to reduce waste, conserve resources & support local communities.

During a ‘guided’ tour, you will be shown different stages. You might see the leaves being spread out on large trays to wither, which involves allowing them to lose some of their moisture.

The withered leaves are then rolled, either by hand or using machines, to help break down the cell walls & release the flavors & aromas. Some, like Black Tea, undergo oxidation, which involves exposing the leaves to oxygen in a controlled environment to develop their flavor & color. Finally, the leaves are dried to remove any remaining moisture & stabilize the flavor.

Different techniques are applied to the Withering, Rolling, Oxidation & Drying stages, depending on the type of Tea being made. You will see the various automated machines used in the transformation & in preparing the packaging ready to be shipped far & wide.

No trip to a Tea Garden is complete without a cup of Tea. The experience ends with a Tasting Session, where you will have the opportunity to taste different varieties of Tea being produced, discover the differences in aroma, flavor & appearance of different Teas & learn about their respective flavor profiles & characteristics. You can, of course, purchase specialised Teas to take back home, if you want to.

Finally, take a stroll around the green fields, be amazed at the idyllic picture-perfect scenery & snap some iconic shots before being transferred back to the Lodge.

Return to the bungalow.

Balance of the day is at leisure. It is a rare experience: lounging on the lawns of a tea estate, with a cup of fresh tea that was grown on these very grounds.

Early morning at 08.00 am, meet the Tour-guide & depart on a short ferry ride for a 6 hour excursion to Majuli Island, one of the largest fresh water Islands in the world.

Declared as a World Natural Heritage site by UNESCO, the surreal Majuli Island is a lush green environment-friendly, pristine pollution-free Island in the mighty Brahmaputra river.

Measured to be 1256 sq.km of land in the year 1901, Majuli Island has been facing significant environmental challenges, including frequent land erosion & flooding due to the Brahmaputra's unpredictable nature. Efforts are underway to preserve the Island's unique Cultural & Ecological heritage while also mitigating the effects of Climate change. The scenic place has a rich cultural & religious association, with heritage sites & water bodies covering most of the areas.

The Island has a population of around 150,000 spread out among 243 villages, home to several Tribal communities, including the Mishing, Deori & Sonowal Kacharis, each having their own unique traditions & customs.

Majuli Island is known for its rich cultural heritage & is considered to be the Cultural Capital of Assam. Aside from the rice field landscapes, fish traps & water meadows, the Island is famous as the centre of Vaishnav religion, based on caste system & idol worship, formed by the 15^th century Assamese Philosopher, Sankardev. The fascinating Vaishnavite Satras (Monasteries) serve as centers of Art, Culture, Art & Religion.  

There are almost 30 Satras, known for their unique form of dance-drama called Sattriya, enacting scenes from the holy Hindu scripture Bhagavad Gita, originally performed as a form of worship, during Festivals & special occasions. Having an important role, each Satra (Monastery) acts as a cultural activity centre for its specific region. The vibrant colourful Festivals are full of joy with a lot of music & dance and seeing the main one called Raas is a fascinating experience.

You will love observing the routine activities of the locals. Apart from Agriculture & Fishing, they are involved in artisanal crafts like Weaving, Handloom & its famous Pottery made from beaten clay that is burnt in ovens fired with driftwood.

Walk down to roads & enjoy the warmth & hospitality displayed by the locals. Pop into the Workshops to watch the Master craftsmen at work.

Majuli Island is also an Ornithologists’ paradise, with over 200 species of Birds recorded, including several rare & endangered ones and also attracting a wide range of migratory Birds from various parts of the world.

The Island is also home to several species of wildlife, including the 1-horned Indian Rhinoceros, Asian Elephant & Bengal Tiger. During the right season, visitors may be able to spot some of the rare endangered species like Whistling Teal.

After spending a few hours, exploring wit the Tour-guide, it is time to go back to the mainland.

Board the ferry again to return to Jorhat & reach the hotel by late afternoon.

Balance of the day is at leisure (we would be happy to offer suggestions, if you want to go out).

Morning, depart by 08.00 am for leaving the State of Assam & venturing into the State of Nagaland which offers a unique travel experience for those interested in exploring offbeat destinations & immersing themselves in local culture.

Cross the state boundary & reach Mon District, home to the Konyak Naga tribe, once one of the most elaborate & fierce head-hunting tribes of Nagaland. The drive to Mon follows a beautiful road that winds itself from the plains of Assam up the lush mountains of Nagaland. There are fantastic vistas at every turn & you are bound to stop many times for taking pictures

Arrive just before noon & Check-in at the basic, but clean, accommodation.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Balance of the day is at leisure (we would be happy to offer suggestions, if you want to go out).

Nagaland is one of the smallest & least populated quaint mountainous state in north-east India, bordering Myanmar & is one of the most-loved hill station destinations in the country. Long considered the ‘wild east’ of India, the state abounds in primeval beauty & Tribal culture.

While Nagaland is a land of picture post card landscapes, mainly known for its lush, verdant green Valleys, meandering Streams, high Mountains & rich variety of Flora & Fauna, the main attraction is the remote geographical location inhabited by a variety of indigenous Tribes, each with their 100s of years of unique customs & tradition as valiant warriors, offering an opportunity to get a glimpse of a life far removed from ours.

Very little is known about the origins of the Nagas who had no writing systems & thus, no written records until the British era. Some scholars believe that the Nagas have their roots in either China or Mongolia & that they migrated to South Asia sometime between 1000 & 901 BC.

The Nagas are famous, because only some 50 - 60 years ago they were still Head-hunters (although there are also reports about rather recent head hunts). The Nagas needed human skulls, because they believed that only with these skulls they could guarantee the fertility of the fields & their people. Only a successful Head-hunter was allowed to tattoo his face & body & as a demonstration he could wear a brass head on a necklace for each head that he had seized.

The sense of Naga identity among the 16 or 17 main Tribal groups, with multiple languages but cultural similarities, is strong & they are very protective towards their culture & identity.

For centuries, the Tribes fiercely fought off any intruders & in between, kept themselves busy by fighting each other. The antagonistic Tribes were also geographically isolated from each other by steep mountain Ridges, Rivers & Gorges & have therefore retained their distinct cultural identities & languages.

Its dazzling hills & valleys & other-worldly places where, until not long ago, headhunting Naga tribes fought off intruders & each other. Today, Nagas have abandoned headhunting & turned to Christianity.

Among the very few records, one of the most important is the Kohima Stone Inscription, also known as the Gambhir Singh's Stone, that was erected by King Gambhir Singh (alias Chinglen Nongdrenkhomba) of the Kingdom of Manipur in Kohima, the Capital of Nagaland in 1833 AD. The inscription marks the Meitei conquest & supremacy over the Naga Hills in 1832 AD. Manipuri King Raja Gambhir Singh conquered the entire region with his military power.

In the old days the village´s Chieftain, the Angh, built his house at the highest point. Then, the Missionaries & Ministers came to India in the 19^th century, found their way into the North-east states & converted almost all Nagas to Christianity.

Nagaland is one of the few states in India where Christianity is the dominant religion with more than 90% Christians, who demonstrated their power by building Churches heights greater than the Angh´s house.

Originally, although they revered natural `spirits', the Nagas believed in a single overseeing but unknown super-force & hence readily accepted the Christian Gospel quite readily. The Bible was translated into many of the Naga dialects (nearly every village has a Church), yet the people have retained many of their old customs.

Baptism is the predominant denomination & the State is known as the only predominantly Baptist state in the world. Other major religions include Hinduism & Islam.

Most Naga villages are perched defensively on top of ridge tops guarded by ceremonial gates. The Morung, a meeting house, acts as a boys' Dormitory & is used for storing weapons & once displayed the prizes of war (enemy heads). The huge sacred drum which stands by each Morung is a hollowed out tree trunk carved to resemble a buffalo's head.

Nagaland is fast modernizing & the Nagas have changed their tribal ways over time, though they still retain their culture & values. One cannot expect to see people dressed in tribal clothes everywhere because a lot of people have adopted the western code of dress. Tribal costumes are usually only worn on festivals & other special occasions.

Today, the official language of the state is English & Nagamese, (a creole language based on Assamese) understood & spoken by most of the locals.

As all Tribes have their own Festivals & Ceremonies, Nagaland, popularly known as the 'land of festivals’, celebrates every festival with great joy & gaiety, adorned with rich & colorful traditional attires. The most vibrant being the 'Hornbill Festival' every December where the songs of the ancient Nagas echo & its music reverberates in the true spirit of the tribal men.

Traditional attire comes out in full feather & spear colour at the many tribal festivals. Colourful costumes, spicy cuisines, pleasant weather, traditional villages, beautiful dance forms & lyrical songs are all that define Nagaland.

Rich in culture, Nagaland is another name for beauty & bounty. Traditional lifestyles linger strongest in the north, where many people live in thatched longhouses & follow farming & hunting lifestyles.

Always ready to welcome a festival, food remains as much a part of the celebration as the dances & songs. Naga people eat almost anything that they can lay their hands on, be it dog, pork, snails or even an elephant & no part of the animal is wasted be it the skin or intestine. It shows how much they relish food & drinks.

Nagaland is as much about scenic beauty as it is about carefully preserved history & tradition and a visit to this mesmerising state will open up a vista of things you can see & do.

Mon is a fairly un-remarkable town without a true centre. The main attraction is the remote geographical location & the opportunity it affords to get a glimpse of a life far removed from ours. You can find traditional Nagaland particularly in remote villages in the district. The town itself is not especially an attraction but it is a perfect base for visiting nearby captivating Konyak villages.

The region of Mon & surrounding area was occupied by the British in 1889 & designated a sub-divisional Headquarters; it was a centre of guerrilla activities until the formation of the state of Nagaland in 1963.

Just a few decades ago, the Konyaks were still head-hunters & you will still find elderly Naga men who would have been involved in the traditional head-hunting at one time, with the typically mesmerizing tattoed faces, blackened teeth, bird feathers on their heads, traditional feathery loincloths below

Thankfully, the famous head-hunting prowess is in the past As most of Nagaland has been converted to Christianity, the custom has now been outlawed. The forefathers of the Konyak believed that they were direct descendants of Noah, as they have biblical names like Mosa, Kaisa Aron & so on. It is also believed that they crossed the historic gate known as Alemkaphan which is interpreted in Konyak language as the Gate of the Sun.

With the exception of the foothills, this District has difficult terrain with steep slopes, not many touristy places or sightseeing points but still, it draws a lot of people from all around the world. The travelers come here to explore ‘off the beaten track’ culture & traditions of the Naga Tribes.

The one large open space in the town is the Stadium which is also the venue for the annual Festivals. There are no buildings of particular interest apart from the few Churches which stand out, taller than the rest.

The town is known for its Weaving industry & has many traditional cottage industries in its vicinity. The Konyaks are known as experienced & skilled Craftsmen & Artists. When they come out to the Markets to sell their agricultural produce or handicraft products, they cut an impressive figure among the uninitiated who are allowed to snap pictures (with permission, of course).

There are numerous pretty quaint Villages like Chul, Longwa, Cheanghah Chingyu, Shangyu near Mon which offer visitors an insight into the life of the Nagas. Their culture & colourful dressing is probably the most interesting aspect of this town.

Tomorrow, you will drive out to see a couple of Villages in the vicinity & experience authentic immersion info Naga Culture.

Overnight.  B D  

Morning, accompanied by the Tour-guide, depart at 08.00 am for a 4 hour excursion to visit a couple of Villages in the vicinity.

Longwa, 2 hours away from Mon, is the largest Village in the District & an interesting sight to behold, since it straddles the international boundary line between India & Myanmar. A very unique feature here is that one half of the powerful Angh’s (Chief) house bisected longitudinally by the border, falls within the Indian territory, whereas the other half lies under Myanmar’s control.

Although the borders are shared & some youths of the Village serve under the Myanmar Army, the Village is governed by the Angh as the Village Council Chairman.

The Rulers of the Villages still use the word Wang (Angh) for themselves, meaning ‘the beginning of everything’ & the Angh (Chieftain) still enjoys considerable power over his people, acting as an autocrat & a democrat, as circumstances demand.

When you visit the Angh’s house you will therefore have the strange experience of sitting near the hearth with half your body in Myanmar & the other half still in India. His house is a demonstration of tribal power & glory, filled with dubious trophies of various human & animal skulls on the Porch. Quite a sight.  It is not the only unusual thing - the Chief also has dozens of wives!

The Angh once had 60 wives & his jurisdiction officially extends into Myanmar & Arunachal Pradesh (a neighbouring Indian State). There are both Indian & Myanmar Schools in this village.

The largest out of 16 officially recognized Tribes in Nagaland, the Konyak are known as 'those violent head-hunters with tattooed faces'.

Though, Head-hunting has been banned for decades, the old Konyak warriors are nostalgic for their fighting days. Warriors can be distinguished by the number of tattoos they gained from taking a head, as well as necklaces of brass head pendants; 1 brass head for each real one taken.

The Village comprises of traditional Longhouses made of wood with thatched roofs. It felt like a last frontier with no electricity line or concrete houses. The only sign of modernization you will see would be a television set in the house of the Chief's son, which acts as a symbolic showpiece.

Unfortunately, Longwa has been affected by the visit of ‘outsiders’ in recent years. Local head-hunters have turned into Sellers of tacky souvenirs in order to earn some extra money.

And the ‘capitalist’ ingenuity has managed to find its way here also. There is a lone Solar Inverter, which some villagers use to charge their Phones as, of course, Mobile Phone Companies have found potential customers here. One just has to climb a small hill to get Network signals. 


Observe & learn about their way of life as you walk around the Village. Partake in their daily routine, fetching water in long bamboo pipes, helping a family in cooking, grinding rice & making jewelry from beads. 



One of the major pastimes for Konyak men & women is smoking opium. Inside the Longhouses, you can find people sucking from bamboo pipes all day. Hanging out with the opium-smoking, formerly head-hunting, mobile phone-toting Nagas in north-east India will be an experience you can never forget.

All Konyaks carry a ‘dao’- a machete traditionally used for head-hunting up until to 50 years ago. The older Villagers still tend to wear traditional clothing. The majority of Nagas are Christian, which bonds the numerous tribe communities. The conversion to Christianity has banned many of their rituals including tattooing.

For those who want an still more authentic & immersive experience, a home-stay with a family, can be arranged. Sleeping on wonderful wooden beds with skull engravings & enjoying sweet dreams.

Check out another Village in the vicinity & experience authentic immersion info Naga Culture.

Village of Cheanghah Chingyu is more off the beaten track & so not visited as yet by many outsiders. Consequently, the atmosphere is more relaxed. The Angh here, is young & educated & modern and lives with his family in an impressive large house on top of the hill.

Outside is a Board which mentions that his father, who died in 2001, was married to 18 wives & had hunted 130 heads in his lifetime. Some of the skulls are still lying in a pit in the Garden & will be proudly shown to you.

Return to your lodging by late afternoon.

Balance of the day is at leisure (we would be happy to offer suggestions, if you want to discover some more).

Overnight.  B D

Morning, return back to the State of Assam as you depart for Sibsagar, the former Capital of the Ahom dynasty.

Check-in at the Hotel.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the Hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Balance of the day is at leisure (we would be happy to offer suggestions, if you want to go out).

The former Capital of the Ahom dynasty for some 600 years, Sibsagar is now a multi-cultural city in Assam, boasting the spectacular ruins of the erstwhile dynasty, including the old Temples of Lord Shiva & Vishnu.

The town was called Rangpur at that tme. Also of interest is the 18^th century Rang Ghar, or 'Amusement House', which once served as the royal Sports Pavilion. The Ahom Kings & Nobles would sit on the balcony & watch traditional games such as buffalo fights in what is considered the largest amphitheatre in Asia. On the roof of this 2 storey building is the design of an Ahom royal long boat & 2 stone Crocodiles. A mixture of rice & egg paste was used as the mortar in construction. The Palace of Tatal, with its winding stone passages, is another masterpiece of the Ahom dynasty.

The Tai-speaking Ahom people came to the area from Yunnan province of southern China, in the 13^th century. A significant minority of the population consists of rural Indigenous peoples who fall outside the Indian caste system; as such, they are officially designated as Scheduled Tribes & the Bodo constitute the largest of these tribal groups.

Sivasagar is a repository of wonderful Architectural, Archaeological, Engineering skills which are reflected in numerous Temples, Palaces, Stone-Bridges, Tanks & Pyramid-type Maidams.

About 3/5 of the Assamese are Hindus, the majority of whom follow Vaishnavism, which venerates the deity Vishnu. Roughly 1/3 of the population practices Islam, most Muslims being settlers from Bangladesh or converts from the lower strata of Hindu society.

Sivasagar was the Capital of the Ahom Kingdom in the 18^th century, when the town was; several Temples remain from that period. The Town is now a Tea-processing centre & a location for Oil Refineries, on the Northeast Frontier Railway & the National Highway. In addition to Tea, the surrounding region produces Rice, Silk, Mustard & Timber.

Later in the afternoon, proceed to visit the ancient Temples & ruins (on your own – unguided).

There are more than 350 ancient monuments in the District.

The main trio of the Douls (Temples) are located at the bank of the Sivasagar Tank which is at the heart of the Sivasagar Town. The Tank also known as Borpukhuri,  was excavated in 1733 AD by Queen Ambika alias  Modambika , wife of King Swargadeo Siva Singha. The Tank attracts various migratory birds that visit every year.

Shiva Doul, one of the tallest Shiva Temple in the country, was built by Queen Phuleswari in 1734. The Temple features a 8 feet high golden Koloshi (Dome) of on the top. There are a number of rare Sculptures that can be seen. Fully functional even today, daily worship is still being offered. One of major festival of the North East India; i.e. International Shiva Festival is organized every year during the month of March.

Vishnu Doul & Devi Doul were also constructed by Queen Ambika alias Madambika in 1734 AD. These Temples also are fully functional.

You may want to visit Rang Ghar, a Sports Pavilion from the time of Ahom Kings. The royal Family & the Nobles, especially during the Rongali Bihu Festival, would gather here to watch Buffalo fights & other traditional games & sports. It was not just a venue for animal sports but also for events such as Wrestling & Dance performances, to name some. The structure stands out as one of the finest examples of Ahom architecture. Believed to be Asia’s oldest surviving Amphi-theatre, it is located near the 7 storied Rangpur Palace.

Mughals tried but failed to invade the Ahom Kingdom? Another unique facet is it was built without any cement. They just used a mixture of rice & eggs which is holding on to this day.

Return to the hotel.

Balance of the day is at leisure (we would be happy to offer suggestions, if you want to go out).

Overnight.  B D

Morning, get set to cross the state boundary again & set off on the short drive to the small hill town of Mokokchung, the intellectual & cultural Capital of Nagaland.

The drive follows a beautiful road that winds itself from the plains of Assam up the lush mountains of Nagaland. There are fantastic vistas at every turn & you are bound to stop many times for taking pictures.

Check-in at the hotel

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Balance of the day is at leisure or perhaps opt for one of the Options available (we will be happy to offer suggestions if you want to go out).

Mokokchung is a small, hill-top Town & the most significant urban centre in all of Nagaland after Dimapur & Kohima and the home of Ao Naga tribes. It is believed that they have wandered from Mongolia to Nagaland, through south-east Asia.  According to folklore, the Ao Nagas are believed to have emerged from 6 Stones which symbolize their forefathers. The Stones are still intact at a location called Longterok, which means ‘6 Stones’.

Another legend says these Stones are still intact at Chungliyimti Village in Tuensang district.

From this village, the Ao tribe moved towards northern region crossing a river named Tzula & settled at Soyim, also known as Ungma today. This was the first Ao Village ever known. After a few centuries, a group of people moved further to the north-east of Soyim & settled at a place named Mokokchung today. Many other Ao Naga villages came into existence when people migrated out from Mokokchung, inhabited by 5 Clans - Pongener, Longkumer, Jamir Atsongchanger & Kechutzar. Marriage within the same Clan is prohibited. Monogamy is practised & all Clans are treated equally.

After the arrival of Christian Missionaries in India, the Ao Naga was the first among the rest of the Naga tribes to convert to Christianity. Presently, almost 100 percent of the Naga population follows Christianity, the majority of them being Baptists. A lot of them have also undertaken Missionary work.

Horticulture, Forestry & Agriculture are the more prominent professions of this Tribe with Jhum cultivation being the most popular practiced by majority. The Villagers have an inherited talent for Arts & Handicrafts, very skilled in producing excellent Pottery, Basketry, Handloom, Weaving, Wood Carving, Wool Spinning, Metal Works etc.

The Government of Nagaland has also recognised Mokokchung district as 'Land of Pioneers' because this place has produced a great number of Luminaries in many fields. Starting from its inception in the 19^th century, through the whole of the 20^th century & till today, people from Mokokchung have led the State of Nagaland in various fields of Academics & Culture. It is the birthplace of ‘Nagaland Idol’, a ‘Singing Reality Show’ based on the Reality Show ‘American Idol’ & the Show has garnered the highest TRP & record sales in Nagaland.

Although, almost all Aos have converted to Christianity, they still maintain their old customs & traditions, especially the tradition of hospitality that can be seen during Christmas. This is the time when everyone, irrespective of their financial or social status, welcomes each other warmly in their homes. Here, one can learn about the Ao Naga culture. They are famous for their colourful Dances & their distinct Shawls designed with red, black & white threads.

In addition to the elaborate Christmas & New Year festivities, the Ao people are also known for the exorbitant celebrations of a few other Festivals.

Since Agriculture constitutes the main occupation in the area, Festivals during the Sowing & Harvesting months are sure to enhance the visitor’s experience. Biggest Festival of the community is the Harvesting Festival Tsungremong, celebrated immediately after the harvest of the crop (generally during the 1^st week of August) involves offering Prayers, Dances & Songs to God.

Moatsu is another Festival that is celebrated on 2^nd May for 3 days to honour Lijaba - the creator of Earth & to pray for a fruitful cultivation season. The entire town comes alive during Moatsu - a festival of community bonding & friendship where people exchange Gifts, Feast, Socialise & make new friends while sitting around Bonfires. Mokokchung & the villages in the vicinity are associated with legends & stories and were once inhabited by dominant Tribes of the region. Various tribal Festivals & Rituals make these villages come to life & visitors surely enjoy the time spent here.  

Coming to modern times, Mokokchung was one of the initial locations in the Naga Hills, where the Assam Rifles Regiment, led by British colonisers, first established their Outposts (then called Stockades) in the later part of 19^th century. Much of the Town initially grew around this Stockade located in the DC Hill. The British Administration was then gradually extended eastwards towards the remoter parts of the Naga Hills.

You will stay for 2 nights in a pleasant hotel, situated on a hilltop overlooking the town, which has surprisingly good facilities for such a remote place. The large & bright rooms have hot water for showers & satellite television. The clean modern Restaurant has a varied menu of Naga, Indian & Chinese dishes and there is even a internet access in the Lobby.

Overnight.  B D 

Full day at leisure for independent exploration.

The popular tourist spots in the area include the District Museum, the main Park, (located just above the Town Center), Unman village (which is regarded as the oldest & largest) & the Ao village.

One of the more interesting is the nearby village of Longkhum known for various cultural activities & Artwork.

We recommend that you visit the near-by relatively modern, clean & friendly village of Mopunchuket where the influence of the Baptist Church is clearly visible, with its many Churches & Schools & a Hospital.

There is a well preserved Morung (male dormitory) of the Ao tribe, & a well maintained Park, with a traditional Totem Pole, as well as some more modern wooden Sculptures.

Then, you can drive to Chuchuyimlang, a pretty village 30 km from Mokokchung, located on a ridge with sweeping views of the Hills & Valleys around. Most of houses are built in traditional Ao Naga style - elevated a little above ground & the back verandahs open out on to vast panoramic views of the mountain ranges. The Streets are clean, with displays of flowers in well tended Gardens in front of the houses. The people are accustomed to visitors & welcome a chat. This Village also renowned for glorious celebrations of various tribal festivals & the most famous Moastu Festival lasts for 3 full days in May.

The central part of an Ao home is a hearth, which is almost always lit. This is the area for people to gather, do household chores & chat. Clothes & grains are still stored in large bamboo baskets. The Pig, which is an integral part of Naga cuisine, is always kept in clean enclosures behind the houses & not allowed to roam wild as in most other places.

And now, back to the Hotel.

Early morning, depart for Kohima, the hilly Capital of the State of Nagaland, known for its indigenous culture,

On arrival, Check-in at the Hotel.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Balance of the day is at leisure or perhaps opt for one of the Options available (we will be happy to offer suggestions if you want to go out).

Perhaps, in the evening, visit the local street Carnival where numerous Food Stalls are set up serving local snacks.

Nagaland is one of those destinations in India that is still, largely, left off the pages of Guidebooks & the land of the Naga people, is home to 16 Tribes. Kohima is home to the Angami Tribe.

A carpet of lush emerald green, dotted with colourful blooms, Kohima, looks like an Artist's canvas. Breathtakingly beautiful, Nagaland’s agreeable Capital - Kohima, if not for its crazy traffic & rampant urbanisation, scattered across a series of forested Ridges & Hilltops - could easily rub shoulders with the best Hill Stations of India.

Originally known as ‘Kewhira or Kewhima', meaning the land where the Kewhi flower grows, Kohima's history goes back to a time when it was a Village of the Angami Nagas & other Tribes. It became an Urban Centre in 1878 when the British Empire established its Headquarters of the then Naga Hills District of Assam Province. It officially became the Capital after the State of Nagaland was inaugurated in 1963.

Set against the backdrop of the Japfu mountain range, the City serpentines along the Mountain Ranges to the top & offers a pristine & seamless blend of nature and Tribal traditions & culture.

The City boasts a rocky terrain & many scenic Trails that are ideal for adventure-lovers & thrill-seekers to choose from, including the renowned Dzukou Valley or Japfu Peak (2^nd highest in the state at 3,048 meters), where one peers down over rolling hills, free of the godawful eyesore that is modern-day construction. The Japfu Peak offers one of the most challenging Treks in the region that takes you through picturesque routes. Other adventure options are Mountain Climbing & Camping in the Jungle.

Home to a sizeable Tribal population, the most dominant of which are the Angami Nagas, Kohima retains its traditional charm, which can be experienced in its various Heritage Villages or Homestay experiences.

There are many places to explore in the City & in its vicinity. Depending on the time & at the Tour-guide’s discretion, you may be able to visit a few of the notable places in the City.

Just behind Japfu Peak is the serene & scenic Dzuko Valley or the Valley of the Flowers. Offering one of the most spectacular landscapes in the country, the Valley is more popular with Trekkers for its interesting & challenging Circuits. Perched at a height of 2,450 meters, the most popular site in entire Northeast India, it attracts adventure & nature lovers for its scenic beauty & rich Flora. The Valley looks best during the full bloom season when beautiful Lilies, Aconitums, Euphorbias & other species of flowery plants carpet the landscape, making it look like an Artist's canvas. The Valley is located at a distance of 30 km from Kohima & the road is lined with Handicraft Stores from where one can collect local Souvenirs as reminders of the trip to Nagaland.

There is also a very interesting quaint Village boasting an ethereal natural beauty, ‘off-beaten track’ Dzuleke - a beautiful spot to admire natural beauty. About 40 km from the City Centre, it is famous as the home of the Bison. Sheltering some of the unique Flora & Fauna, the Village also attracts Tourists, for its rare species of Rainbow Trout which can be found in the stream that flows through the Village.

To sample some local delicacies, make friends with the locals & you might be invited for a scrumptious meal of fresh Crabs & aromatic Binni rice. Tourists can also challenge each other to try Bhoot Jalokia, one of the hottest chillies in the world that are found here in abundance. The hospitable nature of the locals will make your visit to Dzuleke an experience that will stay with you forever. The Village is mainly inhabited by around 200 families of the Angami Tribe & provides an excellent setting for experiencing undisturbed nature & village life.

Another Town / Village worth visiting is the ‘Land of the Lotha Nagas’, - Wokha, a spectacular blend of rolling Mountains, Rivers, Lakes & pristine Forests. Located around 70 km from Kohima, perched on the Wokha Mountain, the highest Peak in the Range, the Town is surrounded by popular natural landmarks like Mount Tiyi, Doyang river & Totsu Cliff. Wokha offers great Trekking experiences & no matter which Hill, the Adventurers climb or which forested Path they take, vibrant Landscapes carpeted with colourful Flowers, will accompany.

The history of this Town dates back to 1876 when the British came here & made it the headquarters of the Naga Hills District under Assam. Visitors can experience a mix of cultures in Wokha, including local Dance & Music. The main Festivals celebrated here are Tokhu, Pikhuchak & Emong. It is also famous for Shawls, which are handmade using traditional techniques that have been passed through generations.

The best time to enjoy the City is during the internationally renowned Hornbill Festival in December, that is a mosaic of Culture, Festivities, Dance, Art, Crafts, Food & Music. Tribal lifestyles are restricted to the countryside & the only time you will see people in full Tribal garb here is during this annual jamboree when the City truly comes alive.

On the whole, Kohima is an excellent toe-dip into Nagaland & Naga culture, being the most accessible of the larger Naga cities. People are friendly, with charmingly dark senses of humor & coupled with an idyllic countryside, there are a few things one will actually miss when visiting (okay, maybe Cellphone or Wi-fi reception).

Morning, around 09.00 am, accompanied by the Tour-guide, depart for the village of Kisama.

India is a land of colorful, loud and exciting Festivals & indigenous. Tribes have been a very important part of history, culture & population. Of the numerous Indian Tribal Festivals, one which has made its mark on an international scale is the Nagaland’s’ Hornbill Festival, also denoted as a “Festival of Festivals”. It is named after the forest dwelling Indian Hornbill, the beautiful Bird is mentioned in the folklore of almost all Tribes of Nagaland.

Nagaland comprises of 16 unique Tribes. The Hornbill Festival is an annual jamboree to resuscitate, ensure, maintain & advertise the abundance of the Naga legacy & customs, that sweeps entire Nagaland every December for 10 days

Hosted at Kisama Heritage Village, on the outskirts of Kohima, it brings together the culture variety of all the Tribes of Nagaland. All Tribes come together & display their Cultures, Dances, Music & create an extravaganza of festivities, along with thousands of visitors, who come to watch the grand Spectacle unfold in a mesmeric array of activities.

On arrival at the Venue, you will be guided to your ‘reserved’ seat in the VIP Enclosure in the Amphitheatre, where the main Performances will take place. Be ready to get exasperated waiting for the VIP Government officials who always think their late arrival enhances their importance. And the function cannot begin till they arrive & address the public. Opening Ceremony on the first day is especially exciting.

The day of the Festival typically sees Tribes from all over North East India's 'Seven Sister' States perform traditional Dances depicting war cries or customs relating to their interaction with Nature & Agriculture.

One of the largest gatherings in the State, the Festival sees a sea of Tribal community members dressed in red & black hues, Coronets, Beads, Cowries & Kilts. Though, from a distance they all look the same, at a closer look, one can distinguish the distinct features of each tribal ensemble.

While the Sema Nagas don a necklet, called Aminihu, that consists of pairs of boar tusks strung together with strings of cane, the Angami wear a precious necklace, called Tsubo, which is made of multi-hued glass pieces, bone spacers & pearls engraved with geometrical patterns. In fact, Patterns, Motifs & Colours on Shawls & Skirts, which differ from Tribe to Tribe, also tell stories of their History, Valour & Traditions. They can also be indicators of accomplishments or marital status.

To encourage inter-tribal interaction & to promote cultural heritage of Nagaland, the Festival is organised by the Government of Nagaland to promote cultural heritage as the best way to experience the rich culture of the State.

The festivities are numerous. Not only Nagaland, the glories of all North Eastern states of India can be witnessed under one roof.

A perfect balance between Art, History & Culture, the Extravaganza features extraordinarily beautiful objects displaying the Tribes’ history. The Performances that complement these are works of Art in Motion.

Some of the most fascinating, are the stunning show of the Headhunting rituals of Konyaks of Mon, the elegant dance moves of Ao women of Mokokchung, the longest daos (swords with wooden hilts) of Changs from Tuensang, the single-stringed musical instrument made of dried bottle gourd called Tati of Chakhesang Nagas of Phek & Angami Nagas of Kohima & finally, the artistic dance of Zeliangs.

While what might have been Wars in ancient times, are recreated as Dramas & are huge crowd pullers. With War-log Drums, blazing Shotguns, Backswords with bevels (dha), Dao & Spears, Performers stage full-blown realistic mock fights, dressed in traditional warrior costumes. The shape, pattern & carvings on traditional Naga weapons differ from Tribe to Tribe. Most of the Performances are accompanied by live music & rhythmic war cries.

Other highlights of the Celebrations comprise of the traditional Naga Morungs, Exhibition & Sale of Arts & Crafts, Flower Shows, Beauty Contest, Fashion shows, traditional indigenous games like Archery & Naga Wrestling. Contemporary Artists get a platform to display their creations of Paintings, Sculptures & Wood Carvings. And of course, countless Stalls selling Herbal Medicine, Food & local Beer in bamboo glasses.

Once the Performances end by late afternoon, the younger crowd gears up for a raucous evening. The Hornbill National Rock Concert after sundown brings in the global festive flavor. Rock Bands from all across the country as well as some international ones come to compete in the Concert. Be part of the international crowds making way to celebrate the Festival of Festivals & celebrate with the 16 Tribes of Nagaland & other States of North East India.

The Festival provides an amazing opportunity to experience Nagaland’s diversity of Food, Arts, Handicrafts, traditional Songs, Dances & Customs - traditions so proudly preserved.

During the day, visit the many 'Morungs' (conventional Naga communal Tribal Hut) set up around the Venue. Each Tribe has its own unique Morung.

After the festivities conclude for the day, you will be transferred back to the Hotel.

Balance of the evening is at leisure (we would be happy to offer suggestions, if you want to go out).

Morning, around 09.00 am, accompanied by the Tour-guide, depart for the village of Kisama, again.

You have ample time today to wander around the Morungs again & take photos of the various Tribes. The Nagas are the most elaborately dressed of all the Tribes in North-east India.

There are various Food Stalls serving Naga specialities, which includes smoked Pork & the aroma can be smelt all around the venue!  Visit the Handicraft & Textile Shops & pick up some Naga souvenirs. Enjoy the festivities till evening.

Return to the hotel.

Balance of the evening is at leisure (we would be happy to offer suggestions, if you want to go out).

Morning, Check-out & around 08.00 am, accompanied by the Tour-guide, proceed to explore the city of Kohima.

Fist stop will be the most famous landmark in the City - World War II Cemetery where the famous Battle of Tennis Court took place.

As you walk through the Garden of the Cemetery, you will see an epitaph carved on the Memorial of the 2^nd British Division, written by English classicist, John Maxwell Edmonds “When you go home, tell them of us & say for your tomorrow we gave our today”, that has become world-famous as the Kohima poem.

Set amidst picturesque surroundings, the well-maintained Cemetery with 1,420 Graves, was built in April, 1944, to honour the brave soldiers of the 2^nd British Division of the Allied Forces, who lost their lives during the Second World War.

Between 4 April & 22 June 1944, soldiers from Australia, Canada, Great Britain & the erstwhile British Raj joined forces against the Japanese as they advanced forward from Burma (now Myanmar).

For the first time in South-East Asia, the Japanese lost the initiative to the Allies, which the Allies then retained until the end of the War.  This hand-to-hand combat & slaughter in the Battle of Kohima, popularly denoted as the 'Stalingrad of the East', along with the simultaneous Battle of Imphal was the turning point in the Burma Campaign & prevented the Japanese Army from gaining a Base from which they might have easily gone into the Plains of India. The Japanese failure to take Kohima was the turning point in the campaign. A disabled Tank from the Battle remains in situ among trees just above the Imphal Road, 550 metres further up from the Cemetery Gate, with a sign explaining its dramatic story. The Allied forces won at a cost of 4,000 men

The Cemetery is home to those that didn’t make it home: 100s of identical granite Graves. The Cemetery is laid out on what were the terraced lawns of the British Deputy Commissioner's Bungalow on the slopes of Garrison Hill. Some of the most intense fighting, nicknamed as the Battle of the Tennis Court, took place across the Tennis Court near the top, where the white marker lines are still in place.

The immaculately maintained Cemetery offers a gorgeous panoramic view of Kohima & also houses a dome-like Memorial to honour the 917 Hindu & Sikh soldiers who lost their lives in the Battle & were cremated according to their faith.

From here, proceed to the Kohima State Museum to get a deeper insight into the history & culture of the Tribes residing in the State.  

Located in Bayavu Hill, around 2 km from Kohima's Centre, the Government Museum to get a deeper insight into the History & Culture of the Tribes residing in the State. Established in 1970, with an aim to introduce tourists to the rich culture & tradition of the 16 Tribal groups of Nagaland, the Museum houses rare Artefacts & Sculptures. There are Galleries on 2 floors displaying of life-size models that depict Tribal Attires & Costumes, Weapons to Jewellery worn by the people.

Art-lovers must stop at the Art Gallery, which displays amazing Paintings made by local Artists. There is also a Display showcasing musical instruments used by the Naga Tribes.

One of the best attractions at the Museum are the models of traditional Naga Huts known as Naga Morung. The Museum also houses a rare Collection of precious Stones like Cornelian & Tourmaline along with brass Artefacts & Silver Bells. The Museum also displays a comprehensive collection of ancient Sculptures, traditional Dresses, Inscriptions of the Naga people.

What makes the Museum worth a visit is the fact that it beautifully depicts everyday life of the Naga people. It is a good place to acquaint yourself with the diverse Customs, Cultures & Crafts of the different Naga tribes.

Drive on & stop at Khonoma Village - estimated to be around 700 years old & famous for its cleanliness measures. 

Famed as Asia's first green village, Khonoma is a great place to introduce yourself to the Naga lifestyle & unwind in the lap of nature. The Village is named after a plant locally known as “Khuno” that grows in the area. The alder tree (Alnus Nepalensis) is found in abundance in this region & Khonoma is famous for its management of jhum fields with alder trees, which fixes nitrogen in the soil & checks soil erosion.

A visit here offers Tourists an opportunity to interact with the people of the local Angami Tribe & learn about how they have succeeded in creating a more conserved & sustainable ecosystem for themselves. It is also known for being one of the cleanest villages of Nagaland, thanks to the availability of Dustbins & public Toilets.

It was here that the Angami Naga warriors made their last stand against the British in 1879. With its mission”Green Khonoma”, it has become a Model Village for eco-tourism. There is an interesting Water System, where water is piped long distances using bamboo.

Continue your drive for Dimapur.

Check-in on arrival by late afternoon.

Balance of the day is at leisure (we would be happy to offer suggestions, if you want to go out).

Flanked by the pristine & softly flowing River Dhansiri on one side & beautiful forested meadows on the other, the charming city of Dimapur is an unexplored & unspoilt destination. It is the only place in Nagaland that has been touched by modernization. On one hand, here one can see Shopping Malls & Commercial Hubs and on the other, there are ruins of their old Capital.

The bustling town of Dimapur, a prominent tourist destination, is the largest city in Nagaland. The Assam government leased it out for 99 years after the State was carved out of Assam in 1963.It was leased because of its strategic location - it is the only plains tract of hilly Nagaland & features the only Railway Station & Airport for connectivity in the State.

Dimapur in Naga means the ‘the city near a great river’ & it acts as the gateway to parts of Nagaland & Manipur and also reflects the Tribal culture of these 2 States. While parts of the city are bustling commercial centres, others are endowed with lush meadows, resembling the setting of a Hill Station.

Surrounded by dense Forests, gushing Waterfalls & towering Mountains, Dimapur is an ideal choice for adventure lovers & solace seekers alike.

Another unique fact associated with the history of Dimapur is that this place was the battle-ground during the World War II between British India & Imperial Japan. The Battle of Tennis Court in Kohima (77 km from Dimapur) is considered the turning point for the Japanese retreat from South East Asia.

Like its history, the travel places Nagaland are mind blowing too. Steeped in mellow serenity, Dimapur was the ancient Capital of the powerful Kachari Tribe in the medieval era. Kacharis were the ones that gave the region its name & the City is predominantly known for its 13^th century AD Kachari Ruins, speckled with ancient Monoliths, Temples, Baths & Embankments, all of which trace the Town's historical roots.

Despite being modern in all sense, in the heart of City, one can find many ruins that speak about the traces of Dimasa Kachari Kingdom. There are several places of historical interest in & around the city, like the Kachari Rajbari Fort ruins & remnants of Tanks like Rajpukhuri, Padampukhuri, Bamunpukhuri, Jorpukhuri etc.

With attractions like the quaint Villages of Nichuguard, Kuki Dalong, Chumukedima, Sethekima, Medziphema, each with it own characteristic & Tribal culture, there are ample opportunities for nature aficionados. Rangapahar Reserve Forest here is also one of attractions due to its unique Flora rich in medicinal properties & you may see some endangered animals, as well.

For the Shopaholics too, there are a lot of things to do - visit Diphupar to pick up products made by Tribes like Angami, Lotha, Chakhesang, Sumi, Sangtam, Ao, Rengma Pochury & Zeliang. May be, purchase a few Naga shawls.

Apart from Archeologist tracing its intriguing past, the place remains thronged with business travelers due to its Commercial Centers.

There are many starlit attractions in Dimapur like Zoological Park, Ao Baptist Church, Nagaland Science Centre, Green Park yet its main highlight remains the Handicrafts & Handlooms at Diezephe Craft Village, not too far from City Centre. home of skilled Weavers & Craftsmen who work wonders through their traditional art. Guided by Nagaland Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation, the Village has taken a significant place in Craft export to other States in recent times. The Tenyimei Tribals, the primary inhabitants of the Village, are known for their excellent Craftsmanship, with deft Woodcarving, Bamboo, Cane work & other forms of Handloom & Handicraft products. The village has gained a specific recognition in recent times & conducts regular Workshops for local Weavers & Visitors who want to learn new ways of production. Best place to purchase authentic exquisite locally made Souvenirs of Nagaland.

You may also bite into the world's hottest chili & / or even attend a Naga Wrestling Match

Depending on the available time, you might visit the Dimasa Kachari ruins famous for its Monoliths. It is believed that the scattered stones & bricks are the remains of Temples & Embankments.

There is also a more famous Shiva Temple with a legend that once, one of the Villagers went to the Rangapahar Reserve Forest & found a Stone which he sharpened with his knife. He realized that some liquid was being released from the Stone. Later, he dreamt that the Stone was the Shiva linga & soon a a Temple sprang up for worshipping the Linga.

Alas, the experience comes to an end & it is time to say au revoir to this land of contradiction, warm Indian hospitality & incomparable heritage & go home.

Time to say good-bye to incredible India & go home. But, we sure hope that you may want to discover a bit more of this multi-ethnic kaleidoscope that 1.2 billion people call home, on your next visit.

Check-out of the hotel by 12:00 noon (if the departure time is later in the evening, we will request the hotel to allow use of the hotel facilities & leave the luggage at the Bell Desk). 

So, you see, you have much more to discover in this ‘land of contradiction’ if you come to incredible India ‘again’ & we will of course, look forward to be able to facilitate that.

“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller” - Ibn Battuta

In time, you will be met by a Journeys Rep, who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to Dimapur Airport for your flight to Delhi & onward.  B

 *Our Services end with the Departure Transfer in Dimapur. On arrival at Delhi Indira Gandhi Airport, you will walk to the International Terminal (same Building) & connect with your onward flight.

** We strongly recommend that you avail the Optional opportunity to explore Delhi & Agra in 3 days, if you can spare the time.

***        End of Services      ***